From Pharmacy to Business: How Healthcare Skills Fuel Entrepreneurial Success

When I first started my career in pharmacy, like most people, I pictured myself in a white coat, meticulously filling prescriptions behind the counter. But over time, I began to realize that the skills I was developing in healthcare extended far beyond the science of medicine. I saw how my background could serve as a springboard for entrepreneurship. From managing complex operations to building relationships with customers, pharmacy provided me with a unique foundation that could translate seamlessly into running a business.

One of the most important skills I honed as a pharmacist is problem-solving. Every day, I found myself assessing patient needs, identifying potential drug interactions, and offering advice on treatment options. This analytical mindset has been invaluable in entrepreneurship, where challenges—like managing finances, optimizing supply chains, or improving customer service—are part of the daily routine. In both pharmacy and business, success often comes down to the ability to analyze data, make informed decisions, and solve problems effectively.

Another key aspect of pharmacy that applies to entrepreneurship is customer service. Whether I was helping a patient navigate their medication or explaining complex treatment options, communication and empathy were at the heart of my job. That same desire to help others is essential in business. Whether you're running a pharmacy, a restaurant, or a tech startup, understanding and responding to your customers’ needs is crucial. Trust and loyalty are built through consistent, high-quality care, and I found that those same principles applied when building a loyal customer base as an entrepreneur.

Attention to detail and organizational skills were also central to my role in pharmacy. Ensuring prescriptions were filled accurately, managing inventory, and keeping everything running smoothly demanded precision and focus. That same level of organization is critical when running a business—whether you're tracking budgets, overseeing operations, or ensuring compliance with regulations. As a pharmacist, I was used to juggling multiple responsibilities in a high-pressure environment, which has translated well into the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship.

Perhaps one of the most underrated skills I gained as a pharmacist is adaptability. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and staying up-to-date with the latest medical research and industry regulations was a constant necessity. This adaptability is just as important in entrepreneurship, where industries and markets are always shifting. Being a lifelong learner has given me an edge, allowing me to stay ahead of trends and pivot when necessary. Continuous learning, whether in pharmacy or business, is key to staying competitive.

Managing operations and teams is another area where pharmacy experience has been invaluable. Overseeing staff, managing inventory, and ensuring smooth operations as a pharmacist gave me a solid foundation for running a business. The ability to delegate, lead a team, and ensure efficient operations has been crucial in my entrepreneurial journey.

In fact, many pharmacists exhibit entrepreneurial traits without even realizing it. Independent pharmacies, for example, are small businesses in themselves, and balancing patient care with business management is part of the job. Even pharmacists in larger healthcare settings often find themselves developing new services or improving efficiency—skills that align closely with entrepreneurship.

Looking back, I realize that my career in pharmacy gave me more than just technical expertise; it equipped me with the tools to succeed as an entrepreneur. Whether you're thinking about opening your own pharmacy, venturing into a new industry, or developing innovative products, the skills and experiences you gain in pharmacy provide a solid foundation for entrepreneurial success. With a commitment to learning, a passion for helping others, and the ability to adapt, pharmacists have what it takes to thrive as entrepreneurs.

About Javid Javdani

Javid Javdani is a seasoned entrepreneur and licensed Doctor of Pharmacy based in San Diego, California. Originally from Iran, Javid immigrated to the United States in 1982, following the Iranian Revolution. He earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of the Pacific in 1994 and built a successful two-decade career in healthcare, serving as the Director of Pharmacy at Kindred Healthcare. Driven by a passion for community and cultural connection, Javid transitioned into entrepreneurship by establishing Balboa Market, an international food market that serves San Diego’s diverse communities. His commitment to quality, authenticity, and community engagement has made Balboa Market a hub for cultural exchange.